Posted on September 22, 2022
The new school term offers an exciting opportunity for 13 senior students involved in a new learning initiative with shipbuilding company BAE Systems.
Pupils, selected from West Dunbartonshire secondary schools, spend part of their week at West College Scotland studying for a Level 5 National Progression Award in partnership with BAE Systems.
This innovative hybrid education model will allow young people to access a vital first step on the career ladder by receiving job-specific training in addition to their regular school education. The pilot program developed by Skills Development Scotland in partnership with BAE Systems and SQA is to be run during the current academic year. The program will help learners explore careers in engineering and progress towards employer-specific modern apprenticeship recruitment plans.
West Dunbartonshire Council Education Services are delighted to be working with a major employer in the area to create career opportunities for young people.
Councilor Clare Steel, Education Services Coordinator, said: “This groundbreaking project exemplifies our commitment to providing a diverse range of education options that builds on the strengths of each student.
“Equipping our young people with practical skills, delivered in partnership with one of our region’s largest employers, will be a major advantage that paves the way for success in a competitive job market.
Vale of Leven Academy student Kobi McPhail, 16, said: ‘I am interested in welding, shipbuilding and engineering so having this opportunity to learn skills directly related to that provides a good early start which I hope will provide a natural progression into full-time employment with BAE Systems.
“The school suggested I do it because I’m good at practical work, whether it’s art, carpentry or construction.
“It’s great that the schools and BAE Systems are working together on a course like this, as it has given me a great opportunity to make a big difference in my life.”
Moses Falana, 16, a pupil at Clydebank High School, said: “It’s a great opportunity to get involved with a company as big as BAE Systems, so I was really keen to show up for the apprenticeship.
“The chance to get a head start on my education will give me an edge when it comes to job hunting after leaving school. It’s not something that happens all the time, so I didn’t want to miss such a great chance to get a good start in life.
Phil Brown, Head of Early Careers and Skills – Naval Ships, said: “We are delighted to be part of this pilot project and look forward to welcoming students to our facilities in Glasgow. We believe this program in particular will provide a unique opportunity, working alongside our experienced and talented trades people, to work on the latest generation Type 26 frigates for the Royal Navy and ignite in students the desire to work on such important and exciting shipbuilding. program. Thank you to all the partners who helped make this happen so quickly.
